Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what assessment his Department has made of the reasons for the decrease in charge and summons rates for crimes.

The likelihood of a crime resulting in a charge and summons can vary for several reasons. Improved crime recording by the police has resulted in increased caseloads and a changing crime mix. These include more complex crimes which take longer to receive an outcome, such as domestic abuse or sexual offences.

The Government recognises the impact that crime can have on its victims and we want offenders charged and brought to justice in the courts. It is the responsibility of Chief Constables and Police and Crime Commissioners to make sure criminal cases are investigated properly and together with the Crown Prosecution Service, ensure cases are charged where there is sufficient evidence, and it is in the public interest to do so.